Flurosis

Fluorosis is a cosmetic condition that affects the teeth. It’s caused by overexposure to fluoride during the first eight years of life. This is the time when most permanent teeth are being formed.

After the teeth come in, the teeth of those affected by fluorosis may appear mildly discolored. For instance, there may be lacy white markings that only dentists can detect. In more severe cases, however, the teeth may have:

Stains ranging from yellow to dark brown

Surface irregularities

Pits that are highly noticeable

It can be treated by removing the surface-stained areas, through tooth whitening or other procedures. Severe fluorosis needs to be masked using bonding, crowns or veneers.